Learn about a dark period of Cambodian history by expert guide
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5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Learn more about a dark period in Phnom Penh, Cambodian history, the Killing Fields, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and
Royal palace. Our English-speaking guide will help you interpret about the history.
Available options
Historical guide Tour
Duration: 5 hours<br/>Historical guide tour : English Tour guide<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel Pick up & Drop Off
Tuk Tuk, Min Van air-con
cold water
Experiences English speaking license tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Hotel pick up
2
Stop 2
The palace was constructed between 1866 and 1870, after King Norodom relocated the royal capital from Oudong to Phnom Penh. It was built atop an old citadel called Banteay Keo. It faces approximately East and is situated at the Western bank of the cross division of the Tonle Sap River and the Mekong River called Chaktomuk.
3
Stop 3
The Silver Pagoda is located on the south side of the Royal Palace. The official name is Wat Ubaosoth Ratanaram, also known as Wat Preah Keo Morakot. Temple of the Emerald-Crystal Buddha which is commonly shortened to Wat Preah Keo.
4
Stop 4
The most notorious of the 189 known interrogation centers in Cambodia was S-21, housed in a former school and now called Tuol Sleng for the hill on which it stands. Between 14,000 and 17,000 prisoners were detained, tortured there, often in primitive brick cells built in former classrooms.
5
Stop 5
Choeung Ek Genocide Center – 9 miles away south of Phnom Penh. The infamous killing fields have a bloody history. Once an orchard and a Chinese cemetery, the Khmer Rogue, lead by Pol Pot, turned the place into what became known as the killing fields, where they executed around 20.000 victim. Over three years, they massacred and buried 2.5 million people.
What's not included
Royal Palace entrance fee tickets 10$/person
Toul Sleng genocide museum entrance fee tickets 5$/person
Killing field $3/ person
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
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3 reviews
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia, is a city rich in history, culture, and bustling markets. Known for its French colonial architecture, the Royal Palace, and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, it offers a unique blend of the old and the new, making it a compelling destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Royal Palace
The Royal Palace is the official residence of the King of Cambodia. It features beautiful Khmer architecture and is a must-visit for its historical significance and stunning design.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
10 USD
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
Also known as S-21, this museum is a former school turned into a prison and torture center by the Khmer Rouge. It serves as a stark reminder of Cambodia's dark past.
Historical
1-2 hours
5 USD
Central Market
Also known as Phsar Thmei, this market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothes, and local food. The Art Deco building is an architectural gem.
Market
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary
Wat Phnom
This Buddhist temple is the namesake and heart of the city. It is believed to be the site where the first pagoda was built in Phnom Penh.
Religious
30 minutes
1 USD
National Museum of Cambodia
This museum houses a vast collection of Khmer artifacts, providing a deep dive into Cambodia's rich history and culture.
Museum
1-2 hours
10 USD
Must-Try Local Dishes
Amok
A creamy coconut curry with fish or chicken, steamed in banana leaves.
Main Dish
Can be made with fish or chicken, vegetarian options available.
Lok Lak
Stir-fried beef with onions and a tangy lime-pepper dipping sauce.
Main Dish
Typically made with beef, but can be made with other meats.
Nom Banh Chok
Rice noodles topped with a fish-based gravy and fresh herbs.
Breakfast
Vegetarian options available with tofu.
Bai Sach Chrouk
Grilled pork with broken rice and pickled vegetables.
Breakfast
Contains pork.
Popular Activities
Boat Tours
Biking
Hiking
Spa Treatments
Riverfront Promenade
Coffee Shops
Temple Visits
Museum Tours
Best Time to Visit
November to February
This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
22°C - 32°C
72°F - 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Khmer
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Cambodian Riel (KHR)
Time Zone
GMT+7
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with common sense
Phnom Penh is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious, especially at night and in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of tuk-tuk drivers offering tours or services, as they may overcharge or take you to overpriced shops
- • Use reputable tour operators and agree on prices beforehand
- • Keep valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Phnom Penh International Airport • 10 km from city center
By train
Phnom Penh Railway Station
By bus
Central Market Bus Station, Siem Reap Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Public buses are affordable but can be crowded and slow. Routes cover major areas of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PassApp, Grab
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Riverside
BKK1
Russian Market (Psar Tuol Tom Poung)
Day trips
Tonlé Sap Lake
150 km from Phnom Penh • Full day
A large freshwater lake known for its floating villages and unique ecosystem.
Kampong Cham
120 km from Phnom Penh • Full day
A riverside town with a mix of French colonial architecture and traditional Khmer temples.
Koh Dach Island
15 km from Phnom Penh • Half day
A peaceful island known for its silk weaving and rural landscapes.
Festivals
Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey) • April 14-16
Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) • November (dates vary)
Pchum Ben • September/October (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
- Try local street food at the Central Market or Russian Market for an authentic experience
- Take a tuk-tuk tour of the city to see the major attractions in a short amount of time
- Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum for a sobering but important historical perspective
- Explore the riverside area for great dining and nightlife options
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
